Whether to plant a Bilva tree indoors or not is an age-old debate. The argument mainly happens because of the gigantic size of the plant. Also, as the tree is sacred, many are hesitant to plant it indoors. All doubts aside, can we grow Bilva tree at home?
As the Bilva tree is adaptive to many conditions, it can grow at home. But to keep the plant thriving, proper planting is a must. So, let’s explore their growing condition and transplanting process.
Can We Grow Bilva Tree At Home?
It is possible to grow a Bilva tree at home if the habitat has the growing conditions for the plant. You can either grow it in a pot or in a container.
Note that this plant can grow beyond 15 meters in height. And such gigantic-sized trees can be a bit difficult to nurture at home. So, you need to trim down its size to prevent its growth. In this regard, you might wonder, “Can we cut Bilva tree or not?”
Well, you should not cut it from the base to grow it to a minimal size. Rather, shorten the side–branches during the winter. It will prevent the plant from invading your home. And if you nurture it in a pot, there is no risk that its root will damage any foundation around.
What Are the Benefits of Planting Bilva At Home?
The Bilva tree is extremely stress-resistant, unlike other indoor plants. So you do not have to worry about its premature death. And with less maintenance, you can easily grow it at home.
However, as the Hindu community holds it as a sacred tree, they might hesitate to plant it indoors. According to Bilva tree astrology, there is no harm in nurturing the tree at home.
Moreover, if you keep the Bilva tree at home, Vastu effects increase as per the Sanatan traditional system. It means that if a home has a Bilva or Bael plant facing the northeast corner, the home will be bestowed with wealth and safety.
Also, planting this tree indoors has medicinal benefits. Its fruits are helpful for the digestive system. And it works as an air purifier. Because it absorbs most of the pollutants present indoors. So, for easy access to fresh air and healthy fruits at home, the Bilva tree is a good choice.
What Are the Growing Conditions To Plant Bilva Tree At Home?
Just because the Bilva plant is drought and stress-resistant does not mean that it can grow in any condition. You will need to prepare your home to make it the ideal habitat for the tree. For that, keep these growing conditions noted:
1. Soil
Indeed, Bilva can grow in varieties of soil. Having said that, they thrive better in sandy and loamy soil types.
Also, this tree is compatible with stony and clay soil as long as the soil has a proper drainage system. To ensure fruit production, the pH level in the soil should range around 5 to 8. If you prefer sand, watch the video for insider tips:
2. Climate
As the Bael tree is from the subtropical regions, it requires a warmer climate. So, you need to plant the tree in a corner that receives direct sunlight.
It cannot withstand extreme winters. But it can adapt to 2 degrees C without any issue.
How to Grow Bilva Tree At Home: Step-by-Step Process
There are two ways you can grow a Bilva tree at home. But I will walk you through the sapling method, as it is most effective for fruit harvesting. And here are the steps to the process –
Step 1: Preparation
From a local nursery, buy a medium-sized Bilva sapling. Then in a container add loamy soil. Then, with a shovel, make a pit in the soil. The pit should be 2X more spacious than the rootball of the sapling. However, it should not be too deep. The hole should not cover the trunk flare.
Step 2: Prepare the Sapling
Let’s unwrap the plastic cover from the sapling. Then, detangle the roots gently. Now, get the roots spread out as much as possible. Get rid of the excessive dirt and soil around the rootball.
Step 3: Transplant
Gently place the sapling in the pit you have prepared. Make sure the root ball should not be covered. At least 25% of the rootball should be above the soil level. It is a must to follow steps to ensure sapling safety.
Do not push the root ball too deeply into the hole. Stop pressing the plant once it reaches 11 inches into the pit. While transplanting the sapling, hold the young plan by its root ball instead of its trunk. Because the trunk is too tender to handle yet.
Step 4: Add Mulch
Once the sapling looks straight in the pot, spread the soil around the sapling and tap the soil. Add 2 inches thick layer of mulch to the pot. Then, keep watering it on a regular basis.
Conclusion
When you want to nurture a Bilva plant inside, the first concern that arises is whether can we grow Bilva tree at home without damaging any structure. Well, it is possible to do so if you keep the tree height within 6 to 8 meters. For that, you need to trim and prune its leaves, branches, and shoots often.
If you are not sure of how to maintain the pruning routine, contact an arborist. They will guide you with the do’s and don’ts.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q’s):
Is it safe to grow a Bilva tree at home?
The Bilva fruits are large and heavy. So, if they fall over you, it can be risky. However, you can prevent the scenario by keeping the tree small with trimming and pruning.
Can you grow a Bilva tree with its seed?
Yes, you can grow a Bilva tree from its seed. But for that, you will need to dry the seeds before planting them. Then, you can sow the seeds and nurture them to grow.
How often to water the Bilva tree at home?
During the summer or dry season, water the Bilva plant every day. Reduce the watering schedule once winter arrives. And during monsoon, there is no need to water it.